Halfpenny out but not for long

Wales have confirmed Blues wing Leigh Halfpenny is out of contention for England's RBS 6 Nations visit to the Millennium Stadium on Friday 4th February, after suffering an ankle injury.

Halfpenny sprained his ankle during yesterday (Monday) afternoon's training session, which saw the national squad put through their paces against the Wales U20's side on the WRU National Centre of Excellence 3G pitch at the Vale Resort, Hensol.

However, a medical scan has revealed the injury is not as bad as first thought and, though Halfpenny will miss the England match and probably the trip to Scotland the following Saturday, he should make his return in a matter of weeks.

"Leigh has an acute sprain to his ankle, but the scan has revealed no further disruption to the ligaments, which is much more positive news than was first feared," said Wales team physiotherapist Mark Davies.

"He will wear a boot and stay off his feet for the next few days, but will remain in camp where we will monitor his rehab.

"The injury rules him out of the England game and should mean he misses the visit to Scotland."

The Wales management did consider calling in cover for Halfpenny, but have decided not to add to the 28-man squad at this time whilst continuing to monitor his progress.

WRU International Skills Coach Jason Strange is a busy man, combining the new role with that of Wales Under 20 attack coach, Ebbw Vale head coach and continuing to teach at Ebbw Fawr Learning Community.

Warren Gatland and Sam Warburton look ahead to this week's crunch RBS 6 Nations tie against France, where the Wales skipper in particular is keen to make his mark, as Paris has proved a bleak place for him in the past.

Following their historic win over England, Wales Under 20 suffered a narrow, 36-34 loss to their Scottish counterparts last weekend, despite outscoring them by five tries to three. Watch the match highlights and reaction.

WRU TV go behind the scenes with the Wales squad as they put the final touches in place ahead of the clash against Scotland at Murrayfield. Follow the squad on their captain's run, the kickers visit to Murrayfield and Neil Jenkins' press conference